If you already have an unfinished basement space, basement finishing or remodeling will definitely be your most cost effective option. If you have to dig down a few feet, you can expect the cost to be the same as a ground-level addition. But, if you have to completely dig out an entire basement space, you can expect costs to rise steeply per foot.

How far do you need to go?

Basements typically need to be a more than the height of a standard door. If you are starting from scratch or almost scratch, the recommended height for maximum comfort is ten feet, but eight or nine feet can work as well.

Do you need an emergency exit?

How will you get out in case of an emergency? Building codes will determine exactly what size of an exit you need to have, and where it needs to be located, so consult your local building codes for your area’s specifics.

Knowing how deep the sewer line is as it leaves your home can help you determine whether you’ll be able to drain your basement by gravity or have to pump it uphill.

Is natural light available?

If possible, be sure to install a few windows around the basement to let in as much natural light as possible. You can also use interior windows to filter light to interior rooms.

Where are the stairs?

If your basement already exists, consider if the stairs are in the ideal spot for maximum livability. If you’re creating the space, be sure to work with your architect or designer to decide on the best spot. A favorite design choice is an open wall at the bottom of the stairs to keep an airy feel.

Are utilities installed?

Older homes come with older, less energy efficient appliances that generally need to vent vertically. When designing your basement, be sure to look into upgrading to more efficient furnaces and hot water heaters, which will lower utility bills and allow for more layout flexibility.

Is heating installed?

If you’re digging down or finishing an unfinished space, be sure to install insulation to maximize your basement’s energy efficiency. Those building a new basement can also choose to install radiant heat tubes in the concrete slab.

Atlanta Basement Finishing Digs Deep

3 minutes ago
2 min read

If your home doesn’t have space for the basement you want, and a standard home addition won't work, you just might need to dig a little deeper.

Here are eight questions to ask yourself if adding on a finished basement is your best option:

What’s there now?
If you already have an unfinished basement space, basement finishing or remodeling will definitely be your most cost effective option. If you have to dig down a few feet, you can expect the cost to be the same as a ground-level addition. But, if you have to completely dig out an entire basement space, you can expect costs to rise steeply per foot.
How far do you need to go?
Basements typically need to be a more than the height of a standard door. If you are starting from scratch or almost scratch, the recommended height for maximum comfort is ten feet, but eight or nine feet can work as well.
Do you need an emergency exit?
How will you get out in case of an emergency? Building codes will determine exactly what size of an exit you need to have, and where it needs to be located, so consult your local building codes for your area’s specifics.
Where’s the sewer?
Knowing how deep the sewer line is as it leaves your home can help you determine whether you’ll be able to drain your basement by gravity or have to pump it uphill.
Is natural light available?
If possible, be sure to install a few windows around the basement to let in as much natural light as possible. You can also use interior windows to filter light to interior rooms.
Where are the stairs?
If your basement already exists, consider if the stairs are in the ideal spot for maximum livability. If you’re creating the space, be sure to work with your architect or designer to decide on the best spot. A favorite design choice is an open wall at the bottom of the stairs to keep an airy feel.
Are utilities installed? Older homes come with older, less energy efficient appliances that generally need to vent vertically. When designing your basement, be sure to look into upgrading to more efficient furnaces and hot water heaters, which will lower utility bills and allow for more layout flexibility.
Is heating installed? If you’re digging down or finishing an unfinished space, be sure to install insulation to maximize your basement’s energy efficiency. Those building a new basement can also choose to install radiant heat tubes in the concrete slab.

These eight questions are a great starting point for a basement refinishing or remodeling project. At Cardinal Construction, we can help you answer these questions to make the right decision for your needs and budget. Contact us today.